New research reveals that patients who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly starving," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts caution that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
